JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Health research requires high-quality data, and population-based health research comes with specific opportunities and challenges. Electronic data collection can mitigate some of the challenges of working with large populations in multiple, sometimes difficult to reach, locations.

Objective:

To discuss the opportunities, challenges, and solutions when using Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) for designing, collecting, and managing data.

Methods:

We implemented two mixed methods studies combining surveys, in-depth interviews, and social media surveillance in Vietnam, Nepal, and Indonesia to understand lived experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic across three countries, and to understand knowledge and behaviours related to antibiotic use in Vietnam. In this paper, we discuss how we used REDCap to gather and manage data, and the benefits and drawbacks throughout the process.

Results:

Electronic data capture using REDCap made it possible to collect data from large populations in different settings. Challenges related to working in multiple languages, unstable internet connections, and complex questionnaires with nested forms. Some data collectors lacked digital skills to comfortably use REDCap. We solved these problems through regular team meetings, training, supervision and automated error checking procedures. The main types of errors that remained were incomplete and duplicate records due to disruption during data collection. However, with immediate access to data, we were able to identify and troubleshoot these problems quickly, while data collection was still in progress. Lessons learned will be beneficial to any research team working with electronic data capture for population-based data.

Conclusions:

REDCap is cost-effective, easily accessible, and has comprehensive functionality that allows for confidential, secure interactions with participants and robust data management.